Wudai Quest

by KaliAnn

The Dragons have now reached the rank of Wudai. They now face new challenges from enemies both old and new. With the help of a new ally can they achieve their goals, rejoin with their Heylin halves and find time to name a leader or two for their group? Read and review to find out.

12. Rite of Passage

A week had passed since the Xiaolin Dragons and the Heylin Dragons had become one. During that time their differences had slowly but surely started to fade. It was during this week that the entire Temple got a make over from top to bottom in anticipation of the Rite of Passage Ceremony.

The gutters had been cleaned out and new roof tiles put on. The buildings had received a fresh coat of paint while inside the floors had been swept, mopped and everything else dusted. Nothing had escaped this cleaning frenzy including the Shen Gong Wu, which had been polished until they sparkled. Decorations had been put up in the form of banners, streamers, balloons, and Chinese paper lanterns.

The monks were busy putting on the final touches and talking excitedly amongst each other. The Rite of Passage took place over a course of two days and their families had been invited to attend! It would be a chance for their families see them receive a special award for completing their Wudai training and finally start tapping into the zenith of their powers.

During the first day they would perform demonstrations, play games, and have a banquet to show what they had learned as well as just to have a good time. All the monks had made gifts to give to their families and couldn't wait to spend time with their families. After the special ceremony on the second day, which Master Fung was keeping a secret; they would receive their award. It was going to be so much fun.

"I can't wait to see my folks again! I mean the last time I saw them was on my date with Lu and we all know how that ended. I still can't believe Dojo refused to bring my entire family with him! He said it would be to much weight!" Raimundo complained as he straightened his shirt for umpteenth time.

"Raimundo, you have eight brothers and sisters plus who knows how many aunts and uncles. It was kind enough for Dojo to go around the world and bring our folks here for free, but we had to draw the line somewhere. I'm just glad that my mother is well enough to travel even though Sydney has to come with her," Kimiko remarked as she worked furiously to finish her gift for her mom and dad. It was a brand new video game that she was certain would help her mother recover.

"I could use some help over here!" Callie called from the kitchen. It was two small for the banquet so they were having it out on the veranda. Callie had been up for hours preparing foods from every country in order to please everyone.

"Here give me that tray full of deserts little lady. Hmm I didn't know that you baked! I can't wait to sink my teeth into one of your delicious cakes," Clay told her placing the tray on the table.

"I hope none of our folks get air sick riding Dojo. I mean none of them have ever ridden a dragon bare back!" Crystal joked happily. It had been months since her grandfather had passed away and the pain was starting to ease. The prospect of seeing her family again made her all warm and tingly on the inside.

"Well at least you guys have something to look forward to. A reunion with Carlos and Maria isn't something I'm look forward to at all. I mean the last time I saw my parents we had patched up some of our problems, but not all of them. How does one person fix a lifetime of problems with parents who spent more time helping others then they did with their own kid?" Lu asked as she finished cleaning her extreme sports equipment.

"Your worried about seeing your folks? Think about how I feel! For the first time in my life I finally got the nerve to write and ask my parents to come and visit me. It's going to be a nightmare," Jack said as he made the final adjustment to his Jackbots. They would be acting like bellhops and servers during the visit.

"That must have taken a lot of courage Jack. I know you said that they pretty much left you on your own. Maybe they want to try and start fresh," Dagwood suggested as he finished cleaning his camera lens.

"They're here! I just spotted Dojo and he's coming in for a landing!" Auara exclaimed racing in from the courtyard. She had been outside practicing for her skit she had written when she spotted the flying lizard a few miles off.

The monks dropped what they were doing and raced outside watching with anticipation. They had all changed into their best civilian clothes to greet their families and Master Fung had joined the group. "Ah I see are guest have arrived. I'm most eager to reacquaint myself with your families' young monks. Remember that this is a time for celebrating, but also a chance for a unique cultural exchange. Please be on your best behavior," he reminded them. "Welcome to the Xiaolin Temple! You honor us with your presences," he said as a greeting as Dojo landed.

The families helped one another off Dojo who immediately shrank. Carrying all these passengers was hard work and he needed to soak in a tub for a few hours to recharge. "If anyone needs me you know where to find me!"

"Mom, Papa I'm so glad to see you!" Kimiko said launching herself into her parents' arms. The Tomomeko's hugged their girl tightly while Sydney watched nearby smiling at the family reunion.

"Oh it's so good to see you my little Chrysanthemum. I hope that you aren't planning any more break-ins," her mother laughed remembering how Kimiko had discovered her at a mental institution.

"Nah I spend my time learning new ways to kick butt!" Kimiko exclaimed. A coughing sound made her turn around. Jack was standing behind her with two adults who she assumed to be his parents. They both were tall and had red hair and were wearing business attire.

"Kimiko, I want you to meet my parents, Michele and Stephanie Spicer. Mom, Dad, this is my girlfriend Kimiko Tomomeko and her parents plus godmother," Jack said uncertainly. He looked like all he wanted to die was run and hide.

"It's a pleasure to meet you all. I'm afraid we haven't been as involved with our son's life as we should have been," Mrs. Spicer confessed shaking Mrs. Tomomeko's hand.

"Yes being a traveling business man is no excuse for not being around in Jack's life. That's something we have to change seeing as how Jack's manage to make quite a life for himself. A robotics expert, an accomplished student, not to mention the best boyfriend you could ask for if I'm reading the situation right," Mr. Spicer added.

"Dad stop your embarrassing me!" Jack said blushing, but secretly he was pleased his parents noticed his accomplishments. Kimiko took his hand and led the two groups over to some shade so they could talk more comfortably.

While this was going on other reunions and meetings were taking place. Clay was happily chatting with his mother and sister who had just been introduced to Callie. While his and her daddies discussed their careers Callie's mother showed her newest designs to Clay's mother. Jessie enjoyed catching up with Callie and even gave back the Wings of Tanabee she had borrowed so long ago.

Jermaine and Stacey were kind of in a hot spot as their folks discussed their engagement to one another. Jermaine's mother was thrilled with the prospect of her son marrying such a nice girl while his stepfather was wondering if they rushed into things. Both Hindis assured the Cooks they wouldn't push the children into doing anything they didn't want to do and that include converting from Christianity to Hinduism.

The reunion between Lu and her parents wasn't as bad as she though it would be. Both parties had matured a lot over time and the bond was slowly and surely mending. It was a pleasant reunion and Maria and Carlos seemed to hit it off find with Raimundo's folks. The two families were busy holding conversations in their native tongues of Portuguese's and Spanish with one another.

Auara's parents and her former bodyguard Juliet were impressed by how much Auara had grown and not just physically. She was no longer a helpless child of two governmental officials, but a strong and passionate individual in her own right. What startled them the most was how much more intoned with her Egyptian heritage that she was. When asked why the sudden change she replied, "I thought it was about time I embraced both sides of my cultural heritage."

"I can attest to that. Mr. and Mrs. Rapses I would like to properly introduce myself. I'm Dagwood Sequoia and these are my parents Gregory and Mallory. They're scientist and I would just like to say your daughter is the most amazing person I met," Dagwood informed them as his family strolled over to introduce themselves.

"Our Dagwood has sent us many letters and emails about your daughter. I must say she is not at all what I expected when he first described her to me," Mrs. Sequoia added.

"That's Auara for you. She's full of many hidden surprises. Would you two care to join us on the veranda for awhile so we may continue this discussion?" Mrs. Rapses asked. The families nodded and turned to the family. It seemed like all the monks were enjoying their time with their families except for one little monk.

Omi was watching the proceedings from the doorway sadly. After introducing himself to Crystal's parents he wondered off to give her some alone time. He gazed at his girlfriend as she talked earnestly with her parents in Icelandic. It was good to see her having such a good time even if he wasn't.

"Omi, why are you here all by yourself? I would have thought that you would be interested in interacting with the families of your friends," Master Fung said as he stood next to the little monk.

"I don't wish to intrude on what appears to be a most special time for my friends. Later after the demonstrations and the games I would like to talk more with them about their lives and such, but not right now. I feel out of place, like I don't belong," Omi explained.

"Because you are an orphan and don't have any family? I would think that quest you went on would've shown you that you do have a family and home here. Still I know that it doesn't take the place of a real family. So I believe the time has come for you to know something of your real family. Come with me," Master Fung commanded as he went inside the Temple. Confused, but curious, Omi followed him wondering what Master Fung was talking about.

They entered Master Fung's room and he went over to his wardrobe. Unlocking the doors he reached inside and removed a plain brown box with a gold trim. He undid the latch and removed two items before returning the box to its place. "As you know young monk you were born in the Temple and I have raised you since then like you were my own flesh and blood. However your mother didn't want you to know nothing about your heritage so she left you two items. One was this," Master Fung said placing a gold heart shape locket on a bright gold chain around Omi's neck.

"It's beautiful Master Fung. Hey, I can't open this! What's the small thought?" Omi grumbled as he tried to undo the clasp. No matter what he did he couldn't open it.

"I'm sorry Omi, but the clasp got stuck together a long time ago. I'm sure that in time we could get it to open. Inside is a picture of both your parents and your mother's favorite quote. 'Never give up hope'. Your mother has the sister locket," Master Fung explained.

"What was the second item that my mother left me?" Omi asked.

"She wrote you a letter. I was to either give it to you on your eighteenth birthday in two months or your Rite of Passage Ceremony whatever came first. She wanted you to know how much she loved you and it killed her inside to give you up. Understand little monk I'm forbidden to tell you her name or your father's name, or anything about them until you are ready for it," Master Fung knowing Omi would believe he was when he really wasn't.

Omi didn't say anything, but opened the crinkled envelope. The paper was yellow with age and the ink had started to fade. But the words were still legible. Taking a deep breath he read the words, the only link to his past.

Dear my dearest Omi,

Today is a special day for you weather it's your eighteenth birthday or the Rite of Passage Ceremony. Because no matter what day it is you have become a young adult and an honorable warrior with they help of Anthony Fung. I'm very proud of you and I wish I could have been part of your life. I know I've missed many first with you such as your first tooth, first step, even your first haircut! I know that this letter can never make up for the years of loneliness and sadness you must have felt, but I hope it can bring you some comfort to know that we are more alike then you might think. Both your father and I were warriors who had a sacred duty we needed to carry out and there was nothing more that we wanted other then raise you as the brave little monk you are. Raising a child is the most important duty a person can have and it breaks my heart I won't be able to raise you. It was the hardest choice I made, but I left you at the Xiaolin Temple because I had enemies that would have wanted to hurt you. I also have been cursed my son and it would have been suicide for me to stay and raise you. The day I am free of both my curse and duty I will return and we can be a family. Never forget that I love you and that you should never give up on hope whether it's for your friends or yourself.

Sincerely my dearest Omi,

Your mother CY. P.S. I hope you like the locket I left you.

Omi folded the letter back up and looked at the locket. He was barely holding back his tears. His mother had been a warrior like him? What had happened to her and his father? What duty or curse had been so severe or important that she couldn't raise him? "Master Fung, are you sure I'm not ready to learn the whole story behind my past? I feel that as a Wudai Warrior about to undergo his Rite of Passage Ceremony, I'm entitled to know something more then what I have here."

"Omi, while you are a mature warrior you are still to young and immature to know the truth. Try to understand that I have my reasons for keeping you in the dark," Master Fung explained to him gently. He knelt down and hugged the little boy in an attempt to comfort him. "It's almost time for us to begin with the demonstrations. Shall we go out an join the others?"

The families had taken their seats in the courtyard and the rest of the monks had already changed into their Xiaolin robes and were waiting in a line for Master Fung to speak. Quickly Omi joined them and faced forward. He didn't have to wait long.

"I welcome you once more to the Xiaolin Temple. Mothers, fathers, and siblings you honor us with your presence. As you know today and tomorrow is a celebration of the young dragons completing their Wudai training and finally being able to tap into the full zenith of their powers. However, we mustn't forget the other accomplishments the young dragons have achieved in the time they have spent here. You have all have received monthly report cards of your child's progress in my school and I'm sure your all pleased by the results. A's and B's! This education will help them in the real world when they chose to rejoin it," Master Fung said letting them soak in what he was saying. Once the chatter died down he continued. "Your children's education isn't the only thing that has improved and grown over time. Each child here has a special talent that they've worked hard to master and while helping one another their bonds of friendship and love have grown exponentially. Now I am pleased to announce that your children have used their talents and skills to create you presents that they will now present."

Kimiko stepped from the line first and walked over to her parents. She handed them a small black hand held game. "It's a new video game I designed. It's supposed to help mental patient deal with their troubles in a fun and productive way. I hope you like it."

Clay was next. He walked over to his parents and sister and presented them with wood carved figurines of him. "I worked really hard to get all the details right. I just wanted you to have a piece of me back at the ranch," he explained.

"Oh sweetie their adorable. You are quite the craftsman!" Clay's mom said planting a big kiss on her son. Clay blushed and quickly rejoined his friends.

Raimundo lost some of his nerve and had to physically push to walk up to his parents. "Um well you see the thing is I'm not really good at making gifts so I was hoping that a small exhibition of my improved soccer skills would be enough. Yeah here I go." All eyes were on him as he dribbled the ball back and forth between his feet. Then in a flash he kicked it up to his knees before going into a header followed by a bicycle kick.

"Well done Raimundo! You have certainly taken your game to the next level!" His father told him enthusiastically.

"Yes it seems my little bobo isn't such a klutz anymore!" Mrs. Pederosa said earning a glare from his son. The other monks snickered remembering when Master Monk Guan had called him that.

All eyes were on Jack as he stepped forward. He cleared his throat and began slowly. "You've missed a lot of my life and that hurt a lot. I was very happy when you decided to come see me. So in anticipation of your arrival I decided to create a short documentary of my life up to this point. Jackbots! HK! Bring the equipment in!" Jack ordered into his watch.

Everyone was a little startled as the Jackbots quickly descended and set up the screen and projector table, but it was the shock of seeing Holo-Kimiko that got everyone to raise an eyebrow. "Here's the film Jack. I hope it's a bigger hit then your last movie. Oh hi I'm Holo-Kimiko! Well bye!"

The film began to play and clearly showed Jack's talents and directing and filmmaking. Everyone got a good laugh at his early days and the time he was a so-called evil boy genius. Cheers went up as he competed in showdowns and proved his worth as a Xiaolin Dragon. When the film was over he took a short bow noticing his parents eyes were brimming with tears of joy.

Jermaine took center stage and performed a cool rap song that he had personally written. It was a big hit and his parents suggested he should try to get it recorded.

Dagwood's gift was a journal containing all his notes, photos, and observations on the plant and wildlife he had seen during his time at the Temple. He hoped that the information would help his parents in their research.

Lu's gift was truly all her own. She decided to show off her extreme sports prow less by doing a combination zip lining and bungee jumping. While her parents were hoping for something else they were proud that their daughter seem to have perfect her unique talents and had stopped breaking the rules.

Crystal, for her gift gave her parents each a rock from Mt. Hong. Along with the rock she had written all the information that she could look up on the type of rock, how it had formed, and special properties. It was a wonderfully thoughtful gift and her parents hugged her tightly.

It took all the boys and girls to haul out Stacey's gift. It was a gigantic painting that told the story of the Xiaolin Dragons lives. From the moment they had recruited Stacey to the rejoining with her Heylin half. "I thought you might want to put it up in the restaurant. It would attract a lot of customers."

"I know the perfect spot to put it Stacey. Thank you for this present. Who knows you might one day join the Bombay Art Society," her mother said.

Auara had composed a musical skit for her gift. During the first part she showed off her theater skills before going into a short dance number where she and Dagwood tangoed. Both families were very pleased.

"You have definitely come a long way since you were under my care Auara. It seems you don't need me anymore," Juliet commented. She then winked to show she was kidding. She would always be there for Auara no matter what.

"Last, but not least is my gift. It's a collection of stories on the Ancients that Master Fung helped me collect. I thought the community might be interested in hearing them and if nothing else they won't be forgotten now," Callie said handing her father the book.

"Thank you Callie I'll be sure to protect these stories with my life. You have my word they won't be forgotten," her father assured them.

"I promised myself I wouldn't cry oh hand me a hanky! It's just so wonderful to see our little monks growing up!" Dojo cried blowing into a silk hanky Master Fung handed him. The little dragon was right that the monks were growing up and it was time for the next part of the first day of Rite of Passage.

"Now that my students have presented you with their gifts I feel a demonstration of their warrior prowess is in order. The monks shall show their control over their elements, weapons, and elemental guards. Throughout the demonstration they will have to work together while trying not to upstage their fellow dragons. Later if there is time they will show their control over their favorite Shen Gong Wu. Let's begin shall we?" Master Fung said he nodded at Omi.

Omi hesitated for a few moments. He just couldn't get into the Ceremony. He was so confused by the two items his mother had left and his heart ached with no one for him to impress. When Master Fung called his name again he realized he had to get started. Nodding his head he jumped into the air and called upon his powers "Wudai Neptune Water!" A giant spinning column of water appeared in the middle of the courtyard.

Kimiko caught the little monk and they grasped hands. Using his momentum he spent her spinning towards the column of water. "Time for a little heat wave. Wudai Mars Fire!" Two fireballs hit the water column causing it to turn into steamy white cloud.

Kimiko landed on the ground, "Clay!" The big cowboy used Kimiko as a springboard as he vaulted into action. "Where do you think your going? Wudai Crater Earth!" The steam was soon encased in a huge boulder. Without Clay's powers holding it up the boulder came careening towards the ground and the audience!

"Raimundo partner go!" Clay ordered as the Dragon of Wind flipped over him and went into action. "Wudai Star Wind!" A small thermal slowed the decent of the boulder, but it didn't stop it.

That was Jack's signal. The second Raimundo tagged him he activated his powers. "Wudai Asteroid Metal!" All the metal in the ground rose into the air and melted together to form what looked like a cannon. The boulder landed in the cannon and was shot back into the air. "Go Jermaine it's all you!"

"You got it dawg. Wudai Blackhole Gravity!" Jermaine shouted. His powers were strained to the limits as he held up the massive boulder. Sweat poured down his face as he lowered the massive rock to the ground. The second it was touching the tiles he let go with his powers and pointed to Dagwood. "Your on nature boy!"

"Understood. Get ready everyone this might shake you up a bit. Wudai Planet Wood!" Dagwood yelled. The ground shook as vines erupted from the ground and twisted around the boulder causing it to rise into the air.

"Good job Dagwood now let's electrify this party. Ready for a sudden lighting storm? Wudai Jupiter Lighting!" Lu cried unleashing a massive bolt of lighting at the boulder. It shattered into a million pieces that showered down upon the group. Everyone covered their heads to protect themselves, but they didn't need to worry.

"Get ready for a change in the forecast. Instead of a shower were getting a little snow. Wudai Pluto Ice!" Crystal cried wavering her hands and causing the boulder pieces to turn into small and harmless ice crystals. With a degree of control she maneuvered the storm over towards the monks. "You ready Stacey?"

"I was born ready. What's a celebration without fireworks? Wudai Supernova Flare!" A sequence of mini explosions started occurring. The ice crystals now looked like miniatures fireworks. Some of the explosive pieces were carried towards the audience who wondered what would protect them.

"Time for me to take the spotlight. Wudai Sun Light!" Auara commanded as her powers formed a protective light shield around the families. They were pleased they weren't going to explode, but the light was hurting their eyes.

"Time to rap this up. Wudai Eclipse Darkness!" Callie shouted causing the light shield to darken and thus saving the families eyesight. When they could see again all the monks were standing in a line once more bowing. The applause for them was thunderous.

"As the young Dragons have just demonstrated they have achieved near mastery over their respectful elements and can work well together. For your next demonstration they shall show their mastery over their respectful weapons and elemental guards. Before each of them stands a target. In a moment you shall see your children wield their weapons with great skill and confidence. I must instruct you to remain absolutely quiet so that your children aren't distracted. Thank you. Omi you may begin," Master Fung said.

"Kajim Charm, Shimo Staff Water!" his weapon turned into two sickles, which he used to decapitate his target with flourish swipe of high-pressurized water.

"Cats Eye Draco, Arrow Sparrow Fire!" Kimiko shouted as her flaming arrows created a bonfire around her target roasting him nicely.

"Longhorn Taurus, Big Bang Meterang Earth!" Clay commanded as his boomerang split into several versions of itself. Each was coated with a protective layer of rock that pulverized their target.

"Crest of the Condor, Blade of the Nebula Wind!" Raimundo said. He watched with awe as a mighty gust blew over his target with ease.

"Magnetic Grip, Olaf Shield Metal!" Jack commanded. He was no longer nervous about his performance, which showed as the metals on his discus turned shield reformed into spikes, which lacerated the target before coming back to him.

"Grava Guard, Goliath Slingshot Gravity!" Jermaine announced clearly. The small little pellets grew in size. The second the struck the target it went up in the air before crashing down.

"Woha Armor, Bunyan Battle Ax Wood!" Dagwood said as he struck the weapon to the ground. Tree roots sprouted from the ground chocking the life out of his target.

"Zeus Order, Thunderbird Sais Lighting!" Lu stated as she unleashed her attack. The electric bird soared through the air effortlessly as raked its talons and carried the target off.

"Mirror Deflector, Shayera Mace Ice!" Crystal said as the sonic vibrations from her mace sent shards of ice flying through the air. They impaled the target without striking major organ areas.

"Bomber Plate, Mei Xing Knife Flare!" Stacey ordered. The energy from her knife built up and then darted through the air and struck the target head on.

"Lantern Fold, Mulan Sunfans Light!" Auara said as she tossed her razor bladed fans through the air. They whirled around their target slicing off the arms before returning to her hands.

"Mystic Ward, Shiva Lance Darkness!" Callie yelled hurling her lance with ease. The target didn't stand a chance as the element of darkness made it invisible right before striking the target. The lance then returned to Callie's hand and she turned around with the others and bowed.

The applause wasn't as loud as before and they wondered why until Master Fung cleared his throat and spoke once more. "As you just seen your children become deadly with their weapons and guards. However I must point out that this demonstration was to show how much control they have over the weapons and not how much damage they inflict. When fighting against a person the Dragons show the uttermost restraint and respect for human life. The rest of today will be filled with games and later a banquet in honor of the Dragons as well as you. If you'll follow me to the fields will begin."

The rest of the afternoon was spent having a lot of fun. They played board games and different sports from every home country. Throughout the day everyone made connections and new friendships were formed as the families learned more about one another. The children were also able to spend a lot of time with their families renewing the bonds between them.

As night fell everyone was exhausted and starving. Dojo helped the Jackbots serve the dinner courses. There was a lot of chatter and everyone was trying dishes from different cultures, but they mostly stuck to familiar foods although their was a bit of a commotion when Mrs. Spicer tried the tripe and then looked sick after she learned what it was. Finally desert was being served when Master Fung made his next announcement.

"May I have your attention please? Thank you. As the night befalls us so ends the first day of the Rite of Passage Ceremony. Today's events were used to mark the end of the monks training as Wudai level warriors and also for a chance to reunite with family and make new friends. Tomorrow the most difficult part of the ceremony will begin. At dawn the monks will take a five-mile hike to release any negative energy in their body. Once they return I will use the Xiaowei Dragon Star to put them in a meditative state. While they experience the lives of their Ancients and the past Dragons who helped define them you will all be able to view it. Projected above their heads will be a free floating movie. It will be a once and a lifetime chance for all of you to view past events that helped shape society. Once the children have completed viewing their past lives I will then present them with the Souls and Legacy Scrolls. The moment they receive these items they will be able to tap into the full zenith of their powers. This will help me greatly when it comes to naming the two Shoku Warriors who will be leaders. Until tomorrow I suggest we all go inside and rest. Guest rooms have been prepared for you all. Dojo, please take them to their rooms at once. Have a pleasant night," Master Fung said as everyone retired.

No one had noticed a bird circling above the Temple all day. If they had they might have taken action against it. Instead Ying Ying and his master landed in nearby tree so Hannibal could go over his plan one more time with his faithful servant. "Those fools have no idea what's in store for them. They think just because both sides agreed on a truce during this time I won't attack. What do they take me for an idiot? I've waited months for this day! The one chance I have of regaining all my former power and glory and changing the course of history for the better. Those monks better rest easy because tomorrow instead of viewing their past lives their going to be living them! Ha ha ha!" Hannibal cackled evilly. Ying Ying screeched in agreement.

The first rays of light had already struck the Temple as the monks took off on their five-mile run. None of them complained as they normally would have seeing as how important today was to them. They were all eager to see what these 'Souls' and 'Legacy Scrolls' Master Fung kept talking to them about were. Besides the chance to tap into the zenith of their powers at anytime was too big of a chance to miss. Dojo had come along for the ride and was instructing them on how to really cleanse themselves for the ritual.

When they arrived back they were all tired, sweaty, and starving for food. However Dojo said they couldn't have any food before the ritual otherwise their stomach might wake them. Instead the monks went inside the Shen Gong Wu vault to await Master Fung's arrival. He had told them before hand he would greet them their after their run. He was standing there with his hands folded behind his back. "Young monks I see you have returned sooner they I expected. Come take your seats and we shall begin."

"Hold up Master Fung, shouldn't we wait for the kids folks to get here? I mean they came a long way to see their children graduate from this ceremony," Dojo asked confused.

"I'm sure that they won't mind missing a few minutes worth of endless chanting old friend. Why don't you join them? I'm sure that you would enjoy a chance to see the Ancient's dragon Shang, he is an ancestors of yours isn't he?" Master Fung inquired as the monks took their seats.

"How did you know about my great grandfather? I never told you about him. Hey what are you doing with the Soul Swapper? Your not Master Fung!" Dojo exclaimed loudly. The monks started to get up to attack when 'Master Fung' pointed the Soul Swapper at them and used it. They fell to the ground lifeless as their souls were suspended in the air above them.

"Moby Morpher! That stupid dragon nearly ruined everything! To nosy for his own good. Well the time has come for me to implement my plan. Are you ready Ying Ying? Of course you are so here it goes. Fala Chronos Mecato Sing. Ancients Shala Mora. Souls Past Lives Atta!" The bean dude chanted in some forgotten language. Throwing down a vial a purple portal formed and sucked him, Ying Ying, and the suspended souls through it leaving the empty bodies behind.

The commotion brought Master Fung racing towards the Vault careful not to awaken anyone in case something was seriously wrong. What he saw definitely classified as a major emergency. There lying sprawled all out over the Vault floor were his dragons and Dojo. Quickly he checked for a pulse and was relieved to find one. When he tried to awaken them he got no response at all. "What is wrong with you young Dragons? Why won't you awaken?"

"They can't awaken, not without their souls old man," a voice said from behind him. Master Fung whirled around and to his disbelief saw Valonia, Wuya, Meribor, and Chase Young standing behind him. It was Chase who had spoken. "What you see before you is nothing, but the body. Without a soul to guide it's nothing more then an empty shell."

"What did you do to my Dragons? Answer me right now Heylin Warriors!"

"Calm down Master Fung or you'll give yourself a heart attack," Valonia advised using some of her power to gently restrain him. "Do you think any of us here would violate the sacred truce of this day? The Rite of Passage is the most important day in both Heylin and Xiaolin sides. The day when for a few fleeting moment you have all the answers, when a person can finally start tapping into their ultimate potential. My Rite of Passage Day was the greatest day of my life. It was the day I first started controlling the Flame and learned I had to share its powers with two others so it wouldn't overwhelm me. Without that day I would never have found my daughters."

"My Rite of Passage day was the first time I summoned my rock creatures and when Meribor first learned to read minds. It was such a momentous occasion I find it hard to believe anyone would mess it up," Wuya added while Meribor nodded in agreement.

"The women speak the truth old man. I too recall the joy of my Rite of Passage. That is why I went to the Nilyeh City, to watch with the Royal Heylin family and see my former student, their children, take the next step into becoming full-fledged Dragons. When we saw Hannibal perform some kind of magic on the monks we rushed over to see if we could offer assistance. There are things that we know about Hannibal that you don't. What we know could help get the souls of the monks back into their bodies before either their bodies or souls are injured fatally," Chase told him. He held out his hand in a gesture of peace and Master Fung shook it.

"I need all the help I can get. The monks families will be awakening soon and I can't have them discovering what happened. If they do the wide spread panic could interfere with our attempts to rescue them."

"Easily taken care of Master Fung. Girls I need you to distract the families for a few hours so that we can concentrate on rescuing the monk's souls. Think you can handle that?"

"What do you expect us to do in order to distract them? Dress in drags and do a hula? This isn't in my job description!" Wuya whined.

"I don't care what you do, but do something! Your son's life depends on keeping the folks entertained while we try to undo the damage Hannibal did. Now go!" Valonia growled.

"Come on sis I've got an idea, but it will take all our power and a lot of luck to pull it off," Meribor insisted as she dragged her sister away leaving Valonia, Chase, and Master Fung alone.

"I love them, but sometimes those girls complain to much. I can only hope that we're a bit more successful. Before we begin with the rescue mission do you have any questions at all?"

"Only three, why did Hannibal do this, will the monks have their elemental powers, and how long will this take?"

"In order, Hannibal did this because it's his last chance to regain all of his former powers. Not many people are aware that he's been around since the time of the Ancients. All year he has been trying to regain his lost power so he could decimate both sides and take control of the world. By invoking an ancient spell he's using the monks Rite of Passage trance to go back in time and change history. The only way for him to accomplish this was to make them live the experience as helpless souls instead of just viewing the past. If he succeeds we're all doomed," Chase stated angrily.

"The monks powers are tied to their souls so they should be able to call on them. However they might have difficulty seeing as how this is a new experience for them. We can only hope that when we form the power triad our voices will reach across time and space and be able to guide them. If not I fear they will fail. Because time will pass differently for them it could take us several hours to complete the ceremony. I'm sure you know what needs to be done?" Valonia questioned. Master Fung nodded and the three of them got stated.

After placing the monks and Dojo in a circle the three of them sat down in the middle linking hands. Each of them represented a different power: Good, Evil, and Neutral/Both. Closing their eyes they allowed the powers of the two Dragon Stars to mix allowing their spirits to search throughout time and find the missing monks. They would only be able to talk with them and could not interact at all if they did find them. This was their one chance.

Dojo was the first person to awaken. "Oh my aching skull. Anyone get a number of that bus that hit us? Wait a minute that wasn't Master Fung in the Vault it was Hannibal! I got to wake the others and oh my goodness! Wake up kids something is seriously wrong here!"

"Dojo, what are you doing? Your interrupting our trance oh my guys where are we?" Kimiko asked as everyone took a look at their surroundings. Instead of the Temple Vault they found themselves stranded in the middle of a field bordering a forest. Not to far away they saw a trail and in the distance they could make out a city.

"I'm thinking weain't in Texas anymore," Clay whistled and no one bothered to correct the quote. Something else had caught their attention.

"Hey guys has anyone noticed something strange? I mean beside the fact that were slightly see through!" Jack pointed out as their bodies become solid. "Dojo, what is going on? Where are we and are we dead?"

"No were not dead, but we're not complete here. You see it isn't so much a question of where we are as it is more of a when we are. If you look around you'll see that the landscape is similar to home so I say were still in China, but by that road marker over they I say Hannibal did something to send our souls back more then three sound years around the time of the collapse of the Ancients Empire. Oh man I hate time travel!" Dojo whined.

"You mean Hannibal Bean separated our souls from our bodies to send us back in time? For what reason would he have to do this?" Dagwood asked.

"Who gives a damm why he did, the question is how the in are we going to get back to the present and into our bodies?" Lu snarled. Whenever she got angry she tended to swear.

"Maybe if we find some of the Ancient's they can help? That city should be one of theirs and I bet they'll give us shelter. Oh come on it's not like we have any other choice," Auara rationalized.

"Uh I think we should listen to Auara because we've got unwanted company coming our way at noon!" Callie shouted. Everyone turned and saw at least thirty zombified men in dark red armor with a strangely familiar black emblem, which resembled some kind of helmet, on their chest marching towards them. They all carried weapons and some of them had bloodstains on their faces.

"Let's get out of here! Dojo you think you can fly?" Raimundo asked urgently. He looked down at the little dragon that was struggling to grow and took that as a no. "Guess will have to defend ourselves. Wudai Star Wind! What? My powers are gone!"

"Yo mine are too. Does anyone have a flicker of power to bring the heat on this guys?" Jermaine asked frantically. Everyone shook their heads and without much question started to run as fast as they could.

They made it about half a mile before the enemy overran them. In their panic state they completely forgot their martial art training and were soon captured. "These children will make excellent slaves to the Master. Do you think our fair ruler would enjoy having them for his pleasure?" asked one of the soldiers who only had one eye.

"I don't know, maybe if the girls are virgins he'll take a crack at them!" another soldier hooted while the rest joined in. They were still laughing when a series of small explosions sent them flying backwards. The monks looked up to see two people in cloaks on horseback riding at breakneck speeds towards them. "I don't believe it! The Warriors are this far out from the city?" The soldier complained as he drew his sword and rushed into battle.

The riders seemed unfazed as they leapt off their horses and quickly planted their boots into the soldier's faces. The monks watched in disbelief as the cloaked figures use martial art techniques to disarm their opponents. But the fighting didn't stop there as the drunken zombified soldiers ripped the cloaks off their rescuers. They were a man and woman. Before the monks could get a closer look something very strange occurred.

The man waved his hands and the soldiers fell to the ground almost like an invisible barrier was pushing them down. The woman snapped her fingers and a series of explosions scared the men so much they ran. To make sure they kept running the woman drew out a knife and sent an energy blast at their backs while the man used a slingshot to hit them in the Keaster. The monks all breathed a sigh of relief once they were gone. "Thank you honorable strangers, without your assistance I fear that my friends and I wouldn't be alive."

"Your welcome kid here let me help you with that," the woman said using her knife to free them. As the monks got up they finally got a good look at their rescuers. What they saw stunned them.

Both of them wore the same style of clothing. Boots, leg and arm guards, flowing black capes, and a headband on their heads. The woman wore an orange leather skirt and a protective armor top over her robes while the man wore silver pants and armor top over his robes. Decorating their armor and headband were symbols of what looked like references to the elements of Flare and Gravity. Attached to their belts the monks could see the Goliath Slingshot and Mei Xing Knife. Around their necks on gold cords was a pendent. The girl's pendent was shaped like a volcano while the boy's was a moon. Both had a small jewel in the center. But the strangest thing was that they looked a lot like Jermaine and Stacey!

The woman had long flowing brunette hair and bright hazel eyes. She was certainly taller the Stacey and more lithe and delicate. Her skin was almost the same tone if not lighter then Stacey. She also didn't have a jewel in the middle of her forehead. Instead she wore a pair of glittering earring in her ears.

The man in contrast was a bit shorter then Jermaine would likely be once he finished growing. Instead of short dark curly hair and medium brown eyes this man had longish black hair in dreadlocks with chocolate brown eyes and skin. "You kids don't seem to be from around these parts. It's strange that the Tyrant's troops would go after you. They usually leave travelers alone this close the city, but I'm guessing that for some reason he thinks your valuable."

"Would you mind telling us where you come from and why you're out here alone with a dragon?" the lady asked.

"Excuse me, but I don't think right now is the best time to be asking questions. If you will take my friends and I back to your city will be happy to answer any questions you folks might have. But first an introduction would be nice. My name is Crystal and these are my friends: Omi, Kimiko, Clay, Raimundo, Jack, Jermaine, Dagwood, Lu, Stacey, Auara, and Callie. The dragon is Dojo."

"My name is Jason and this here is my love Nova. We are two of the Twelve Warriors of the Ancients. We've got a cart stored around here. Hope on and will swap tales okay?" Jason said as they harness the horses to the cart and made their way to the city.

"This is really strange, these guys are the original Dragons, are ancient ancestors. I feel so weird to be in their presences," Raimundo said. The other's nodded. The question now came up to what to tell with them.

"Tell them nothing of the future, but explain that you are warriors from a distant country who've come to help them. The Ancients will understand and trust you because they can sense themselves in you," a voice that sounded suspiciously like Master Fung echoed in their heads. The monks looked at one another as if they were crazy.

"You haven't lost your minds young monks. The three of us are contacting you with our spirits in attempt to guide you home. The only way you may return is if you make sure history plays out the way its suppose to. If not all could be lost," Valonia added confusing the monks even more, but they sensed she was telling the truth.

"You will have to work on trying to bring out your powers and though it will take time you will be able to do it. Learn whatever you can and put your faith in the Ancients. Just remember you must stop Hannibal and all costs and bring him back with you once you've completed your mission. Be careful not to get injured or you may die. We will try to contact you again later to offer more advised. Until then be careful," Chase said breaking the connection.

"Okay I say our world has just turned upside down. We have to trust Valonia and Chase in order to get home? What was Master Fung thinking?" Lu exclaimed.

"He was thinking he needed their help to save you so deal with it. They're all right and you should listen to them. I'm sure if we keep our ears open will figure a way out of this mess," Dojo said as they entered the capital of the empire the Xiaolin City.

The city was huge nearly as large as the Nilyeh City. Inside the protective walls there were hundreds of fields of plants, orchids, and even pasture for animals. There were aqueducts, and roads with vehicles, and the buildings looked similar to skyscrapers and there were temples. All over the place was activity from a variety of people. You could see hundreds of stores, schools, and even what looked like a hospital in this advanced city. Even the décor was out of this world. The cart was brought inside the gate of the biggest compound around. It seemed to be some kind of temple/palace. "Wait here, while we fetch the rest of the warriors. The news of warriors offering aid should go over well with our leaders," Nova told them gently as she and Jason headed off for the main building.

"This is all very strange. Did any of you notice their water system and I'm pretty sure they have running water and sewer systems? It was much to advance for this time period," Omi remarked.

"You want talk about advance look around you. Everything here including those workers in the field seems to be run by different elements and chi energy. Kind of reminds me more of the twenty first century then whatever century we're in now," Kimiko remarked.

"We knew that the Ancients were advanced and many of their secrets were lost. You reckon that one of their secrets was rotating animals between fields to give it a chance to heal?" Clay asked.

"What about growing organic food and managing the local animal population by spading and neutering the creatures? What about them protecting endangered plants and animals that's creepy," Dagwood pointed out.

"What I find strange is that almost all the people we saw came from different countries, different tribes. Yet there seems to be no prejudice, no inequality, none of the problems you'd normally find in a mixed environment," Raimundo said.

"That did strike me as odd, but what struck me even stranger is how healthy everyone seems. Even in the midst of war no one here is suffering from any disease consistent with this time," Callie spoke out. As a healer herself this seemed out of place.

"I could have sworn I saw what looked like primitive robots working in those fields and no one seemed to blink an eye!" Jack exclaimed.

"Yeah well shut me up if I'm wrong, but their entertainment is far more entertaining then our history texts suggest. I saw kids playing sports, riding bikes, playing in what looked like a park. I find that highly unusual since we learned that a lot of kids worked from the time they were born to the time they died," Jermaine pointed out.

"Not to mention their economic system seems to be thriving. If I understood everything those merchants were saying is that the Xiaolin City is big on trade. They got the whole export import down pat. I didn't think business tycoons were around this far back in history," Lu remarked.

"Everyone here seems to have received an excellent education. There is no illiteracy, dozens of jobs, and there schooling seems to be very similar to our own. The people here know they're at war and their concerned, but they're not letting it ruin their lives," Crystal whispered.

"Forget about technological, economic, and even education advancements. Take a look at their artistic achievements. There is no way I could ever hope to reproduce something a beautiful and well sculpted as this. I don't even know what the material they used for some of this stuff!" Stacey exclaimed.

"I wonder who is in charge of the entire Ancients Empire? I mean warriors normally didn't run things, but it could be different here. Do you know Dojo?" Auara asked.

"All I know is the Ancients Empire was centuries ahead of its time. The people overcame so many diversities and were very intoned with the twelve elements. They took the name 'Ancients' because it described where they got their power. I know a fair and just Emperor for ruled the Empire awhile, but once that evil tyrant came into the picture I'm not sure what happen. I do know the Twelve Warriors of the Ancient were friends with my Great Grandfather Shang and I do believe that's him and the rest of the Warriors now," Dojo interjected at seeing the Twelve Warriors approaching the group.

There was dragon resting on one the male's shoulder. He was about the same size of Dojo with dark green scales, red spines, and a yellow beard. He was playing with what looked like a yo yo. "Shang enough playing with the yo yo. You can play with it later right now we have guest. Welcome honorable strangers. My comrades say you have come from far away to help us in our time of need," the male with Shang said.

"Yeah, we're warriors and heard that the Ancients were in trouble. We came from far away and when we got here those creeps jumped us. We would have defended ourselves with our elemental powers, but they're not working for some reason. It was lucky that Nova and Jason came along to help us out otherwise I don't want to think what could have happened to us," Raimundo said taking the lead.

"Those zombie soldiers belong to our enemy, an megalomaniac of a tyrant. He's got fantastic powers so it no wonder he went after you and took your powers. Don't worry they'll come back in time. In the meantime your welcome to join us inside," the male responded again.

"Yeah it would help us a great deal if you could tell us more about your enemy, why your so advance, heck even learning more about you would greatly assist us in this crazy quest," Lu told them snappishly.

"Of course join us inside and will explain everything. My name is Zephyr; I'm the leader of the Twelve Warriors and the Dragon of Wind as Master Ryo use to call us. These are my comrades, friends, and loving couples who make up my group. That's Oba, Dragon of Water and his mate Aleu, Dragon of Ice. This here is Agni and her mate Dactyl, Dragons of Fire and Metal. My good buddy Caleb and his love Selena, Dragons of Earth and Darkness. Those two are Bonsai and Eos, Dragons of Wood and Light. You've met our Dragons of Flare and Gravity and this charming young lady is my mate Quintessa the Dragon of Lighting. Of course you met our dragon friend Shang. Nova already told us your names. Come inside and all your questions will be answered," Zephyr said leading them into the temple/palace.

Once inside they got a big surprise. While they weren't startled that different types of elements ran everything, there was a shock when they saw that the palace wasn't lit by electricity! How advanced was this city?

They were taken to a huge dinning room where there was plenty of food for everyone to eat. As they all started to eat they noticed the similarities and differences between themselves and their Ancient counterparts.

They all wore the same type of clothing matching the colors they turned when they joined their Wudai power except Oba was blue while Zephyr was white. All of their pendants looked like the symbols found on their body armor and everywhere else on their clothing was symbols to represent their elements. It was the physical difference that surprised them the most.

Oba was fairly tall and well built with more normal skin tone. He had a black topknot and dark eyes. He seemed a lot happier and freer then Omi. He was holding his mate's Aleu hand. She had short white hair that framed her face with light blue eyes. She wasn't ball and was shorter, almost a petite with a fine toned body.

Agni had long cascading locks of black hair that reached down to her waist and dark blue eyes. Her skin was ivory toned and she had small agile body, but if her crushing nuts with her bare hands were any indication she had plenty of power. Meanwhile her husband Dactyl wasn't an albino at all. He had long dark red hair pulled back in a ponytail with bright green eyes and his skin was healthy shade of pink with a strong and healthy physique.

Caleb didn't wear a hat and he actually combed his scruffy blond hair and you could see both blue eyes. He wasn't as bulky, more like he had his strength hidden beneath. Selena on the other hand was still tall, toned, and had dark hair and eyes. The only difference seemed to be the face paint she wore on her cheeks designating her a healer.

Zephyr had long free flowing brown hair and emerald eyes. He was tall with a strapping physique and he looked tired. Sitting next to him Quintessa looked like a female version of him except for her black hair was held back in a single braid with her red bangs hanging by her face. Her jade eyes sparkled while small scar on her face marred her beauty.

The last two Bonsai and Eos certainly looked similar yet different from their modern day counterparts. Bonsai didn't have a strong physique and his auburn hair was cropped short and brown eyes looked like they had seen better days. Eos had short braided black hair and her eyes instead of being violet where gray. Her body was lithe like a dancer, but strong like a boxer. Neither of them looked like a person you wanted to pick a fight with.

"I can see you young warriors have many questions. Perhaps it would be easiest if we started at the beginning and then you might understand our dire situation," Zephyr said after everyone had eaten his or her fill.

"Yes, I speak for all my fellow monks when I say we enjoy a good story," Omi stated eagerly. He was hoping to pick up some secrets that would improve his chances of being name Shoku Warrior.

"You're an inquisitive young warrior aren't you? You sure you're not part Ancient? It was our curiosity and trust in the Kung sites that helped us create such an advance Empire. While other tribes around the world struggle to survive we have peace and harmony here. We fight no wars and have offered to share our knowledge with others," Oba explained.

"Its true, we've never had any enemies. Originally our group, which is made up of the people with the strongest ties to the twelve elements, was formed to teach self-defense in case of danger. We never thought the day would come we'd have to fight to protect our ways," Agni elucidate sadly.

"What happened? What changed your way of life so drastically you had to go to war?" Kimiko prodded.

"Well shortly after Emperor Xiaolin appointed a certain man as governor to one of our outer providence a few years ago. That's when things changed drastically. This governor rejected all our laws and declared himself ruler of the providence. With the help of his loyal vizier he became an evil tyrant and used dark magic to turn the people into zombie slaves. That was only the start of our troubles," Caleb related to them as he recalled the dark day.

"The tyrant began to hoard all the elemental power for himself instead of using it to benefit others. Emperor Xiaolin had hoped he would see the error of his ways, but then this tyrant did something unspeakable. Some still can't believe he would be that callous," Dactyl said as he polished his Olaf Shield.

"What, what did this guy do and while were talking about him does he have a name?" Jack pestered. He was anxious to learn what great evil this guy did.

"I'm sure as warriors who battle with the elements as your aid you know about Kung Sites? Places all over the world where the twelve elemental chi energies meet and they can be good or evil depending on where they are? Well he began to absorb the Kung Sites, stealing their power to make himself stronger!" Jason told them still horrified by the unspeakable act.

"Yo hold up hommies. I get why your upset about the good Kung Sites being destroyed, but wouldn't having the bad ones gone be a comfort?" Jermaine asked confused.

"No it wouldn't. The world is in a constant state of balance. If there was to much good in the world a minor infraction would mean death and a world with to much evil would lead to the destruction of the planet. Without those Kung Sites regulating the balance all of us are doomed. That's why all Kung Sites, good or evil, must be protected at all cost. It was this sacred duty to protect the Kung Sites that lead us to our sorry state of existence that we find ourselves," Bonsai said tiredly.

"When Emperor Xiaolin heard about the destruction of the tyrant as well as the cites that existed there he sent out an army to stop him. He and Shang, along with the strongest warriors from all across our Empire went after him. Emperor Xiaolin fell and his strongest general and greatest master of the martial arts, Master Ryo became our leader. It was he who assembled us and gave us our duty," Nova explained.

"Master Ryo knew that we would need all the help we could get in order to defeat the tyrant. So he created the Souls that you see around our necks. Made from the last good Kung Site that is hidden underneath this city, our Souls have trapped the essences of each element inside them. In battle whenever we need a bit of help and our normal powers won't work we call upon the Souls powers to rescue us. We use them sparingly and more often since Master Ryo fell in battle. Although he wasn't blinded in his first battle with the tyrant he never stopped being the best swordsman ever. When that evil tyrants vizier murdered him we merged his essence with a magical treasure chest. If we ever need guidance we open this box up and Master Ryo for help," Aleu admitted showing them the Treasure of the Blind Swordsman. A look of immense sadness crossed her face.

The monks couldn't believe it! They had expected to learn a lot about the Ancients and the secrets of the past, but this was unbelievable. What else would they learn? "Please continue, what did you do after Master Ryo fell?" Crystal asked hesitantly.

"It was after that battle we became the leaders of our Empire. That much responsibility made us realize that even if we defeat the cursed tyrant our Empire was destroyed. We could never rebuild, but we could preserve our legacy and our secrets with the people. As soon as the fighting got worse we sent our citizens to other tribes to live out the lives. With them they carry the knowledge and secrets of our once proud empire. They may be lost for a while, but eventually they'll be rediscovered eventually. The tyrant might win the battle, but the war will go to us," Selena remarked happily.

"This is the place that we make our last stand. We've already taken steps to ensure the people of the Xiaolin City will be out of here by the time the final battle comes here. My only hope is that when we take down that despicable tyrant that all the evils he committed will be undone and that he suffers for centuries!" Quintessa snarled angrily. She winced as an old wound flared up.

"My comrades speak the truth, but I hope you don't judge them harshly. Since we became the Twelve Dragon Warriors of the Ancients we had to put aside our dreams and ambitions. The tyrant sent a message that he will be engaging us soon in battle and if we fall we'll never be able to have families as we've hoped. As leader of the group I'm fearful of what is to come, but I know that whatever happens this proud city and our great deeds won't be forgotten," Zephyr told them.

"Excuse me if I'm being rude, but I do have a question. Why are you called a dragons and why do you have one with you?" Dojo questioned eyeing his great grandfather who was still playing with the family yo yo. Shang was old well past his prime, his son and Dojo's grandfather was probably fully grown and was waiting for his wife's clutch of eggs to hatch.

"Your not rude at all honorable Dojo. I've lived most of my adult live here among humans after my mate died. I raised my family here under the benevolent protection of the Ancient's Emperors protection because one of them saved my families lives. I felt obligated to guard and protect his and because of my service the Emperor made his symbol a dragon and named his warriors after us. By the time Xiaolin came to the throne my brood had grown up and returned to the clans. I stayed here because this became my home and it was where I was most needed. After the tyrant came to power I became liaison between mystical creatures and normal folks. I was especially needed when we learned that the tyrant was slaying dragons and creating a potion to absorb their powers for his zombified soldiers. Although that must have backfired on him when his men became demons!"

"Are you saying this tyrant created the La Mang Long Soup? The one that gives immortality, power, and incredible strength to the drinker, but cost them their soul," Raimundo asked in disbelief.

"Yes, because you've slain a pure and noble creature you have committed a great act of evil. You will reap the befits of this misdeed, but at a great personal cost. Night has fallen and the emergency crystals have been activated. I guess it's time for the watches. Zephyr perhaps the young warriors would like to assist with tonight watches?" Shang suggested.

"They might as well, but not all at once. Children need their sleep. Show them to their room and after two hours of sleep the first group can assist. I hope that your stay here will be pleasant and that the thoughts of the evil Tyrant Hannibal Bean doesn't ruin your sleep."

"Hannibal Bean! That's whom you're fighting?" they all gasped. The Twelve Warriors nodded and sent them to the rooms. Once they were alone they began to discuss what they had learned. They knew from Crystal's encounter with Chakra that Hannibal had once been human, but this was unbelievable.

"So at least we now know why Hannibal wanted to regain his lost power, but I still don't get how were suppose to help defeat him without our powers," Dagwood said.

"Not to mention even if we find him and defeat him how does that get us home? For all we know the Hannibal we know has gone to the Nilyeh City in this time to steal its Kung Site. If he did that then we're screwed," Lu pointed out.

"He can't go to my city in this time. The Ancients have created an unblockable pass, which he can't bypass. It took me days to navigate it and the only reason I was able to is because enough time had past to allow entry. No Hannibal is nearby waiting for his chance to strike," Valonia's voice echoed in their heads.

"Hannibal has most likely rend viewed with his past self. With his knowledge of the future Hannibal's human self could defeat the Ancient's and change the course of history. You must not allow that to occur or all will be lost," Master Fung told them.

"In order to accomplish your goal you must separate the two Beans. Even if his human self knows the future he can't do anything by himself. He's too stupid to act without his future self's guidance. Once they're separated you can combine your powers together to trap Hannibal and Ying Ying inside a chi bubble. You will be returned to your bodies with your prisoners once the Ancients have become pure elemental energy. Trust in them and yourselves and there is nothing you can't accomplish. We'll be in touch," Chase said before the voices faded.

"Have I mentioned how creepy that is? I always get the feeling they're rooting through my mind. Well I guess our best hope of winning tomorrow is getting to know our Ancient's better. I mean in between bites I heard them talk about their interest and they sound a lot like us," Auara pointed out.

"Just remember they're not you. Just because your similar doesn't mean that you know them. If we want to really help them we need to learn all about them including the differences," Dojo advised as they turned in for their two hours of sleep. Later Omi and Crystal were awakened and went on patrol with their respected Ancients.

The four of them talked for a while telling each other where they would be patrolling. After a quick kiss and a few words of caution the two split up to roam the compound. "I sure hope that Aleu is okay by herself. Lately she seems even more winded then usual. I haven't heard a quirky quip out of her mouth in ages. The battles seemed to be getting to her more often then before," Oba admitted as they patrolled the east wall making sure the crystals were functioning.

"I don't quite understand how mighty and well trained warriors such as yourselves can be effect by war so badly. I know that I've been in a constant struggle against good and evil for nearly three years now, but it hasn't impacted me in such a way I never want to fight again," Omi confessed.

"Oh Omi is that all you see me as a warrior and a husband? I am much more then that and the same goes for my friends. Master Ryo chose us to be Dragons not just because of our powers, but because of what kind of person we are. Myself for example, I am an accomplished musician," Oba informed him retrieving a beautiful flute from his pocket. He put it to his lips and began to play in perfect pitch. The sounds he produced would cause mountains to weep he was that good.

"That was most beautiful, never in my life have I heard such wonderful music. I wonder if I could play like that," Omi told him.

"Perhaps one day, but another talent I have is that I know when people are avoiding a painful subject. Tell me young Omi what is bothering you so much that you can't tell your friends about it?" Oba asked him gently.

"It's nothing really, except do you have family?"

"Yes, a mother, father and a younger brother. When the fighting got bad I sent them to live in a neighboring kingdom. I know that they are safe, but I miss them terribly because I fear I will never see them again. Tell me about yours son."

"I am an orphan. My master raised me at a temple since I was a baby. It never use to bother me until recently when I saw my friends reuniting with their loved ones. It made me wonder about my own. Master Fung who knows the whole truth only gave me a short letter and a gold locket left behind by my mother. According to them the reasons she couldn't raise me is because of some sort of duty and curse. I don't understand those reasons and I'm so angry with Master Fung for not telling me everything!" Omi confided as he tried once again to open the locket, but failed.

Oba cupped the locket in his hands and gazed at it for a few moments before he spoke, "Omi, I won't pretend to begin to understand what your going through, seeing as how it's Aleu who's the orphan not me, but I do have some advice for you. Your Master Fung is only obeying your mother's wishes and I'm sure that whatever is preventing her from being with you is serious because she loved you enough to keep you safe from harm. Whatever your mother's curse or duty is I'm sure that it isn't as important to her as you are. She left you this token for you to remember her. It's strange how much it looks like the lockets I gave my brother to remember me by. See there's the dragon I etched into the gold and see these two bumps? When you connect the two lockets together they open up into a flower and play the 'Ballad of the Dragons' that song I was playing earlier. Keep it close to your heart Omi, I have a feeling one day you'll find your family," Oba predicted hugging the little monk.

On the opposite end of the compound Crystal was getting to know Aleu. She was a very different person then she first imagined. The young woman was full of love and life with a never-ending compassion. "So you're an orphan? How did that happen?"

"When I was five there was an accident and my entire family was killed. Master Ryo adopted me from the orphanage and oversaw my education and training. As much as I love learning new techniques I'm more of a scholar. I can't get enough of mathematics, languages, and science. I own the largest private book collection. One day I hoped to write books for children. What are you passionate about?"

"Well a lot things really. I do love books, school, and ice-skating. Lately though my primary passion of geology has taken a back seat to my family. Ever since my grandfather died earlier in the year I've grown closer to my folks. I guess I got my priority straighten out. Do you think any of you couples will have families one day?"

"That is a question that I have no answer to. Everyday the fighting gets worse and we seem no closer to ending Tyrant Hannibal's reign. I keep hoping that I will leave behind some kind of legacy after all this is over. Come you must be tired let us return to the Palace. I'm sure that the others are already busy with the nightly chores," Aleu told her brushing back a strand of white hair back as they returned to the palace.

The others were doing their nightly chores, which entailed more then just patrolling the compound. Caleb had enlisted Clay's help to check on the horses to see that they were healthy enough to ride tomorrow. "We check the horses ourselves every night incase the grooms miss something. I would hate to be caught in the middle of battle and my bronco suddenly gave out. Carrot stick Desiree?" Caleb asked holding out the treat to a beautiful young mare who graciously accepted the treat. Caleb patted her own the nose and spoke softly to her. "Horses are my first great love, my second happens to be witling. I enjoy carving models out of wood. What do you like to do for fun Clay?"

"Well pardon me sir, but I was raised to be a cowboy so my interest stem along those paths. Roping, wrestling, and good old fashion square dancing. Plus I love eating meat, I can't get enough of it," Clay replied as he checked the rest of the horses hooves for infection.

"Well, I'm more of a vegetable fan then a meat person. Still I do try to make sure that the men, woman, and especially the children get enough to eat. Gluttony is a horrible thing and I sure as hell don't want to be accused of that," Caleb remarked as they began work on the saddles and reigns for tomorrow's upcoming fight.

Callie found herself in an interesting place that night. Selena had taken her to the hospital to help her attend to the sick and wounded. Callie was impressed by the fact that despite the had medical equipment equal to or even superior to the twenty first century, many of the patients were being treated by folk medicine. It made her proud inside that Selena honored her traditions and she wasn't a bad cook, but was she more then a healer/spiritual adviser and warrior as well? "This hospital was my proudest accomplishments. It was completed on my eighteenth birthday just a few days before I wedded. After I became a Dragon Master Ryo needed my services more often then the people did, but I still help whenever I can. Hand me those berries it will help sooth her throat and cure her cough."

"I have to say your ability to heal amazes me, what's more impressive is that you say you talk to spirits? Are they the ones who guide you in your decision making?" Callie asked crushing the berries up and pouring the juice down the patient's throats.

"No, sometimes I go on my gut or the starts. I'm actually a pretty decent astronomer. I love watching the stars, the nine planets, and other celestial bodies all while charting them. But none of those things can help me when it comes to cursed victims," Selena admitted sadly.

"Cursed victims? I thought you guys mentioned at dinner if you became a victim of Hannibal's cursed soup or a zombified soldier there was no cure. I mean how do you kill an immortal?" Callie asked concern and wondering where this talk was going.

"Many victims of the La Mang Long Soup either commit suicide or have an no infected family member kill them, which seems to be the only release. One of my more difficult tasks is giving a killer cocktail to victims so they die in their sleep before the full effects of the curse manifest. I've been working on a cure and I think I've found one, but I've never been able to test it. Still I'm hopeful that the cure will work because I can't keep taking life even if it saves their souls. Come we have more patients to see before dawn arrives," Selena instructed her moving onto the next patient.

Dactyl, Agni, Kimiko, and Jack were visiting the orphanage and helping them get prepared to leave the city with the rest of the citizens if the fighting got to close tomorrow. Agni was playing happily with the children. She told them stories, gave them toys, and braided the little girls hair. "I come from a big family and my dad was a toy maker. I'm use to being with kids. When I'm not busy defending the city I like to knit clothing for the children. My dream is to make sure that every child no matter where in the world is taken care off. It's kind of strange really. You think with my love of children that I would have had one of my own by now," Agni explained as she tucked the kids into bed and kissing them good night. Tears formed in her eyes as she looked at each child with tender love and kids.

"Maybe your afraid of what kind of life your child would have in such dismal times. It could be that you're waiting for just the right time for you to get pregnant. I'm a pretty good judge of character and I'm sure your going to make a great mom," Kimiko assured her.

"Really? I mean in our Empire we practice safe sex and birth control. No one has to have a child unless they want to. I can't imagine living in some other kingdom where woman are only used for procreation. Were so much more then that if you ask me," Agni told her.

"I have to agree with you on that. It took me a while to teach that to Omi, but he eventually got the idea. Of course it took me beating my boyfriend in a Showdown to demonstrate the strength of woman. Speaking of men where is Jack and Dactyl?" Kimiko asked.

"Don't worry, Dactyl took Jack with him to check the golems. Your boyfriend will have a good time tinkering with them," Agni assured her.

"So these golems are living creatures made from clay or stone right? And you created them to help protect the citizens of the Empire and assist with labor? Wow your good," Jack said as he watched Dactyl instructed one of his golems to aid an elderly couple with their packing. In Jack's mind the golems were prototypes of his Jackbots.

"I'm a tinker. I fix and build things. Master Ryo was the one who noticed that the things I built with Metal became nearly indestructible once I worked on them. I owe a lot of my inventions to him. It was also Master Ryo who inspired my other dream," Dactyl told him.

"What's your dream? My dream is to become a famous director and win a Grammy for my movies. Oh I guess that's a little beyond you're understanding," Jack said sheepishly.

"It's okay, I get your meaning. What I want to be more then anything is a teacher. I want to instruct young minds and encourage future generations to come up with new and creative ideas. Once we defeat Hannibal, Agni and I plan to have several children. There is so much I wish to teach them," Dactyl stated.

"Do you ever get the feeling that maybe you let Agni down or possibly yourself? I know that I've never quite forgiven myself for starting out as an evil boy genius."

"Everyone feels that there is something they can't forgive themselves for Jack. My biggest regret is that I failed to protect Master Ryo from Vizier Ying Ying dark magic. Still I take comfort in the fact I was able to rescue some part of my beloved Maser. I know he forgives me and that was the first step in forgiving myself. The same thing will happen to you I guarantee it. Now shall we rejoin our lovely ladies?"

Stacey had trouble sleeping so she decided to take a walk to try to clear her mind. She was surprised to find Nova in a shrine surrounded by beautiful art pieces praying for protection from God. "Did you create all these pieces?" Stacey questioned softly as she knelt down next to her and started praying as well.

"Most of them, but not all. Art is just one of my hobbies. Are you religious Stacey? I know most people are, but sometimes I wonder if I'm strong enough in faith and trust for God's love," Nova confided.

"I'm sure that your God loves you tons Nova. Just because your questioning your faith in a time of crises doesn't mean it isn't strong. By the way you said art was one of your hobbies, so what are the others?" Stacey questioned.

"Truth be told I love boats. I get a lot of pleasure when I canoe or sail around the lakes and rivers near here. Something about the water just makes me feel calm and renews me. Like I can face whatever comes at me no matter what," Nova replied.

"I've never even been on a real boat before. I wonder what that would be like," Stacey mused as they continued to pray.

Jermaine hadn't been able to sleep much either so he had gone wandering. He found Jason in some indoor training center working out. Without asking Jermaine joined his counterpart as they began attacking practice dummies. "Nothing like a good workout yo to get the blood plumbing through the body. I hate to see the dope who tried to take you on."

"Flattery will get you nowhere Jermaine. While it's true I enjoy sports of any kind I am a fair competitor. I get my real joy out of coaching young athletes. My dream is to train future competitors in the traditions of fair play. After observing you for a while I think that becoming a trainer would be a great goal for you," Jason informed him before going back to work.

Dagwood, Auara, Bonsai, and Eos were in the Planning Room going over tomorrow's plan of action. It was strange to see the original Dragon of Wood plan out brilliant strategies and superb sneak attacks. "Now if we can lead the demonized soldiers to this overhang Caleb can use his powers to drop the rocks on them thus trapping them between the rocks and cliff side. The battle should go a lot smoother if we don't have to worry about them," Bonsai stated.

"I think that it could really work. Even with their enhanced strength those boulders must weigh at least three tons. It would take at least three legions to move them all. Excellent strategy Bonsai. I had no idea a Dragon so intoned with nature could come up with such brilliant tactics," Dagwood commented.

"Dagwood, it's because I'm so intoned with the plants and animals I can come up with these plans. After many hours of observation I came to an understanding of the world around me and the creatures in it. One day you to maybe able to as well," Bonsai told him confidently.

"Well, I hope that all the fighting doesn't damage the city to much. It took me months to come up with the design plans and I doubt I'll have the energy once more to draw new ones," Eos informed the group.

"Wow you're a architect? You designed this entire city?" Auara asked in stunned disbelief.

"Well most of it. This palace was remolded to match one of my designs a few years back. I'd be lying if I said I didn't think I was one of the best. After Hannibal is gone and Bonsai and I are settled with our new family, I plan to focus all my attention on designing."

"I would have never imagined. Personally I'm more of an performer then a builder."

It was an hour before dawn and Raimundo and Lu were in the Throne Room helping Zephyr and Quintessa with some last minute details. It amazed the two young warriors how the two veterans were able to handle the mantle of leader with such ease. They had to know their secret. "So Zephyr why did Master Ryo appoint you leader?" Raimundo asked nervously.

"I'm not entirely sure why Raimundo. I'm not the most skilled of the Warriors and to tell you the truth I made a lot of mistakes when I was in training. I would slack off, pull pranks, and one time I even betrayed my friends and joined the enemy. After that incident I thought they would never trust me again," Zephyr explained.

"That sounds a lot like what happened to me. The only difference is one of my enemies performed a ceremony making me her son. I don't know how I can ever be chosen to be leader with that kind of stain on my record," Raimundo confessed.

"Perhaps you still can. Raimundo, like I said, I'm not entirely sure why Master Ryo chose me to be his successor, but I do know that he was right in his decision. Being a leader is an awesome responsibility and you have to make sure the power doesn't corrupt you like it did Hannibal. Sometime it means giving up what means the most to you in order to benefit others. More then once I've had to send my friends out to die, but somehow in the end it all works out. If I can become a great leader so can you."

"Thanks Zephyr that means the world to me."

"So Quintessa it's your turn to confess. How did you get that scar on your cheek?" Lu demanded.

"I got it from being to impulsive and rash when I was younger. When I was your age I was like you. Always wanting to be on the go and doing something. I didn't care if it was rock climbing, combat practice or racing carts at break needs speeds. The point was I didn't want to listen to a word my father said. I was always to busy being mad at him for the death of my mother and spending more time with others then me. Finally he sent me to Master Ryo to try to straighten me out and curb my extra energy. Master Ryo was a fair teacher who taught me a lot about discipline and patience, but he couldn't get rid of my impulsiveness and recklessness. Once during training instead of concentrating on my opponent, I was mocking him cruelly. My mouth horrified my father, who was watching from the sidelines. He shouted at me that he sent me here to learn control so I could be a great leader after he died. I snarled and cursed at him and then rushed my opponent without my sais to protect me. My oppunent brought up his sword to defend myself and slashed me. I pressed my hand to my face and felt the blood. I couldn't understand why Master Ryo had done that to me."

"He said, 'In battle cruel remakes will not bring you victory, but lead to your own defeat. An honorable warrior has no need for such cowardice. To help you remember that I have given you a scar so that when you are in battle you will not forget. Now go to your father and apologize for insulting him.' I did apologize and from that day on I changed. I became a much better person as well as a great warrior. When my father died in battle against Hannibal I became the last Empress of this fair, but dying empire," Quintessa finished up.

"Wait a minute, your telling me your father, Emperor Xiaolin, sent you to boot camp to turn you into a kungfu fighting princess? Now that is a great story! I think you're a great Empress Quintessa and after today when we help you kick Hannibal's butt all the way to Timbuktu you'll prove it!" Lu exclaimed happily. How cool was it learning one of the Dragons that made up part of your soul was a princess?

"Dawn has arrived, come you two it is time to join the others as we ride off into battle. The people of the Xiaolin City have already been given their instructions so there's no more need to bother them," Zephyr explained as they headed down to the stables where everyone else met them. After a few last minute discussions everyone mounted their ride and took off galloping trough the city. Cheers arose from the populace as they watched their last chance against Hannibal leave the protection of the city to face him in battle.

Tyrant Hannibal Bean was sitting on his huge warhorse in full armor and with the Kershaw, at the opposite end of the battlefield awaiting the arrival of his hated foes. With him were hundreds of demonized people and scores of zombified soldiers under his control. Hannibal as a human looked a lot like his bean self. He was very big and muscular, with cracking dark brown skin, a few strands of black hair on his otherwise baldhead, and big yellow eyes. As he looked through his telescope he laughed at what he saw revealing his crooked yellow teeth. "My future self was right Vizier Ying Ying. Those meddling warriors are bringing powerless children to help them fight their battle. Well to bad their going to lose this time around!"

"Yes, with your future self assisting us the future looks quite bleak indeed," Vizier Ying Ying, said. In all honesty he looked a lot like human version of his bird self. The bird in question along with its master where sitting on human Hannibal's shoulders ready to help him out whenever he needed it.

"Don't underestimate the monks you two. Just because they haven't been able to use their powers since they got here doesn't mean they won't learn how. We need to make sure that they don't separate us or our victory will be gone," Hannibal hissed in Tyrant Hannibal's ear.

"You worry to much little bean. With my nearly invincible powers no one not even the Warriors or Monks will stop me. Ah they have arrived why don't I greet my guests," Tyrant Hannibal whispered. Clearing his throat he bellowed across the field at the Warriors and Monks who had halted their horses. "Greeting Dragon Warriors! Leader Zephyr and Empress Quintessa I'm honored that you two would come here personally to escort me to my new palace."

"Can it you evil Tyrant! The Ancient Empire may be near it's end, but there's no way in hell that we're allowing you or your sniveling little assistance take the two remaining Kung Sites!" Quintessa snapped angrily.

"Your reign has come to an end Hannibal Bean! By the time we are through with you shall have no powers and I will make sure to banish you far far away!" Zephyr shouted back.

"You really think your puny weapons and powers can stand up against to mine? Perhaps you need a demonstration of my abilities to convince you to surrender!" Tyrant Hannibal said. Lifting up a glowing hand he let loose a beam of intense energy. Everyone gasped as the beam struck the Xiaolin City and destroyed half of it. "I guess you'll be looking for a new capital. I know anyone living there is now deceased. Ha Ha Ha!"

"Nice shot genius. Now you made it even harder to get to the Kung Site. Not to mention you completely missed the fact they evacuated the city before they came here so you didn't kill anyone!" Hannibal moaned. How could his past self be so dumb to use his stored up Kung energy so carelessly.

"If you that will make us surrender then your crazy. Monks, your still without your powers so use your martial arts to take care of the zombies. We'll handle the demons. Shang I need you and Dojo try to separate Hannibal and Ying Ying from their new friends. Everyone be careful and try not to use too much power. Everyone remember the plan? Well charge!" Zephyr shouted waving the Blade of the Nebula high in the air and then his horse thundered off into the middle of the frenzy. The other Warriors followed suit.

"Attack!" Tyrant Hannibal shouted driving his horse into battle and whirling the Kershaw expertly. Vizier Ying Ying followed close behind him carrying a scythe and expertly slashed at the two dragons who flew in the air attacking them.

The monks were soon up to their necks in the living dead. They tried to free their horses, but the zombie soldiers just dragged the beasts down. In attempt to free themselves they released the horses and jumped into the middle of the fray. "How does one stop the living dead? We can't free them from this state without the Zing Zane Bone!" Omi exclaimed as he head butted one of the zombies.

"I don't think that would work on these particular zombies Omi even if we had it! These crazy evils are the dead brought back to life!" Jack shouted as used a right hook to get one of the zombies off of him.

"In order to stop the zombies you must re-kill them. I know that sounds harsh, but by killing them once more you will free their tortured souls from this miserable existence. In the original version the Ancient's nearly died when the zombies tried to feed them to the demons," Valonia voiced.

"As repulsive as it sounds you have to listen to her my young monks. Once the zombies are down neither Hannibal can bring them back. You will be one step closer to separating the two Hannibal's and capturing them. For the sake of everyone you must fight on," Master Fung told them.

"Pretend your playing that idiotic game you love so much. Goo Zombies right? Whoever gets the most zombies gets bonus points towards becoming Shoku Warriors. Now go before your destroyed!" Chase commanded.

"Well you heard them, let's start playing Goo Zombies. Rabbit Punch!" Kimiko shouted as she thrusted her palm hard into the face of a zombie killing it instantly. Her stomach turned, but she continued on knowing it was for the best.

Quickly the others followed her lead using a range of martial art moves. From Omi's Repulse the Monkey to Auara's Strike of the Flying Serpent. Each of them put their whole heart and soul into this. While it was heart wrenching they knew they deal with the consequences of their actions later with Master Fung.

Meanwhile the fight wasn't going so well for Dojo and Shang. They couldn't get close enough to breath fire on Vizier Ying Ying without having some scales slash off. To make matters worse Shang was tiring quickly. It wasn't easy for an old dragon to maneuver around so easily and dodging the scythe was taxing work. "If only I was a century younger this fool would be toast!"

"Well your nearly two thousand years old what do you expect? Watch out Shang!" Dojo warned as Vizier Ying Ying racked his deadly weapon across Shang's underbelly opening up a huge gash. The old dragon shuddered before falling to the ground and shrinking back to normal size.

"That was way to easy. Pathetic if you ask me. Now it's your turn to fall dragon," Vizier Ying Ying told him turning his horse to face the distraught dragon. Raising his weapon high in the air he brought down hard ready to decapitate Dojo.

"I don't think so!" Dojo yelled out angrily. Opening his mouth wide he breathed out a stream of fire so intense it caused Ying Ying's horse to shy and run in the opposite direction. Dojo flew down to check on Shang. "Shang! Are you okay? Speak to me!"

"I'll be okay Dojosan. I've suffered worse wounds in my long life great grandson. What's one more?" Shang cracked as he coughed a bit of blood up.

"Wait a minute you know I'm your great grandson? But how?" Dojo asked confused as he continued to stitch up the wound.

"You think you could pull the wool over my eyes by not telling me your last name? You look a lot like one of my son's and your smell is familiar. Now you must go and help the Warriors. Hannibal has super powered the demons and their plan won't work," Shang coughed.

"I'm sure they can handle it right now you need attention," Dojo said getting back to work on his wounds.

Meanwhile the Ancient Warriors were in the midst of fighting off demonic hordes of soldiers with their weapons. Oba whirled the Shimo Staff expertly while Aleu used her Shayera Mace to pick up stranglers. Dactyl used the Olaf Shield to block the demons claws while Agni tossed a barrage of Arrow Sparrows to burn them. A little ways away the rest of the Warriors were using a combination of weapons fire and elemental powers to round up all of the demon hordes, but nobody used their souls just yet. They were saving that power for Hannibal.

"The original plan won't work now! They're too powerful to be trapped by an overhang. Selena, use your potion on them! Hopefully it will turn them back to normal!" Zephyr commanded.

"It hasn't been tested! What if I just make it worse?" Selena called as she fired a blast of darkness at her demon.

"How much worse can it get? Selena we have no choice. Do it love!" Caleb called out to her. Selena sighed and removed her pouch where the potion was kept. Whirling it around like a bolo she expectedly released it into the center of the horde.

The pouch opened up releasing a cloud of powder into the air. The demons breathed it in and to everyone's astonishment they returned to humans. The only problem was they were dead because they didn't have their souls anymore. "Well I guess my potion needs a little fine tuning, but hey it was a success!"

"This has gone on far enough! There is no way I'm allowing a bunch of children, two stupid dragons, and a bunch of Warriors to stop me from conquering the world! Time to show you why I'm the most evil Tyrant ever!" Tyrant Hannibal roared kicking his warhorse hard and charging the Warriors. Hannibal the bean took off in the air with Ying Ying flying straight at the monks who were just finishing up the zombies.

"My younger self may be an idiot, but he's right about you children being pests. Ying Ying attack!" Hannibal commanded.

The bird screeched loudly causing the monks to stop dead in their tracks. They sank to their knees trying to block off the noise. "Make it stop! This is worse then listening to opera singers!" Lu screeched.

"Trust me it only gets worse. Ying Ying! Bind them!"

Ying Ying let out another screech. A beam of blue light shot out of his eyes striking the monks dead on. They let out a cry of disbelief as they found themselves bound tightly by blue energy and unable to move at all.

"Kids! Come on Shang we have to ah!" Dojo cried out as Vizier Ying Ying tossed both him and Shang into a magic proof cage. "Let's see you get out of this trap dumb beast."

The Warrior Dragons saw all this and rode off to rescue them when they clashed with Hannibal. He expertly whirled around the Kershaw allowing the blade to sink again and again into their horses killing them almost insistently forcing the warriors to abandon them. "You will pay for killing our friends!" Bonsai yelled angrily.

"I don't think so. You're the ones who will be paying with your lives!" Tyrant Hannibal said blasting them with his Kung powers. The Warriors went flying all over the place crashing into things and crumbling to the ground with blood gushing from their wounds. With another wave of his hand they found themselves hovering in the air cross like and tied up by invisible binding. "Well looks like your luck finally ran out. Once I absorb your powers I will be absolute ruler of the world!"

"Finally history will be changed for the better! Finish them off now before something goes wrong," Hannibal ordered. He knew that the moment everything seemed to be going right for him that's when things went horribly wrong.

Raimundo was struggling with all his might against the magical bounds that held him tightly. He desperately wanted to help save the Ancients as well as himself from annihilation. As he saw Tyrant Hannibal move in for the kill he knew that the time to act was now. Letting go of all his worries and concerns he focused on the only thing that mattered at the moment. Freeing himself from the bounds. "Wudai Star Wind!" Everyone stared as the sudden burst of wind blew across the field sending the bad guys flying twenty feet away. "Alright I did it!"

"If you can tap into your powers maybe I can to. Wudai Jupiter Lighting!" Lu cried out. The monks squirmed and yelped as a surge of lighting danced across the binds freeing them before jumping over to the cage and freeing the dragons before lastly freeing the Ancient Warriors. "Now that's what I call a power surge."

"We must stop the Hannibals once and for all!" Omi exclaimed.

"Okay then here's the game plan. Kimiko, Lu, Crystal take down the human version of Ying Ying. Stacey, Auara, Callie, you and the dragons take care of the bird version of Ying Ying. We'll handle the Hannibal the Bean," Raimundo commanded.

"Which leaves us to deal with the Tyrant. Just the way we like it. Warrior Dragons our time has come. Let us end this war now!" Zephyr ordered as they readied their weapons for battle.

Vizier Ying Ying was not happy. His robes were muddy, he was bleeding from a dozen different places, and he still hadn't killed anyone with his scythe. "You will pay for your insolence! When I'm through with you you'll be begging for dea ahh!" he screamed as Kimiko kneed him in the groin while the other two tripped him up. "You brats! When I'm through with carving you up I'm going to use your skins as wall art!" he snarled wielding his weapon with great ease.

The girls ducked and dodged about avoiding the deadly blade. Finally Kimiko had had enough. "I think that weapon of yours is getting to hot to handle. Wudai Mars Fire!" A thin stream of fire darted from her fingertips and into the handle of the weapon. Ying Ying let out a cry of pain and flung the superheated weapon away before it could really burn his hands. Kimiko caught the deadly blade and snapped in half. "I like to see you slice and dice us now without your fancy stick."

"Maybe it's to much for his poor heart to take. I mean that was his favorite toy. Why don't we give him a jumpstart? Wudai Jupiter Lighting!" Lu cried lobbing a ball of lighting at Vizier Ying Ying sending him flying through the air and come crashing down against the hard earth.

"Why don't we cool you off with some nice ice cream? Wudai Pluto Ice!" Crystal said spinning her hands around super fast. Ying Ying soon found himself incased in an icy coffin. "Well that's putting him on ice. Hope the other girls are doing okay."

The other girls were having a ball taunting the dumb bird. While Ying Ying was trying to zap them with his eye lasers the girls would dance about avoiding them. "Why don't we get rid of that poultry already? First things first clip the bird's wings. Wudai Supernova Flair!" Stacey called out sending a chain reaction of explosions at Ying Ying. The bird screeched as his wings got scorched and he started to fall.

"Now we take care of his sight. Wudai Sun Light!" Auara said throwing a shining ball of bright light at Ying Ying. The bird was soon screaming, as it couldn't see anymore.

"Now to knock this bird's lights out. Wudai Eclipse Darkness!" Callie ordered wrapping a cloud of darkness around the bird. The bird landed on the ground with a thud and began screeching as it tried to stand. That's when Dojo and Shang dragged the bird into their former cage and slamming the door shut.

"That's one caged bird who won't be singing," Dojo joked.

"I hope the boys are doing okay against Hannibal Bean. You girls should go help them," Shang suggested. The girls nodded and raced over to help the boys.

The boys were actually doing pretty well despite the fact that Hannibal was using the Moby Morpher to make him big and super strong. He lashed out again and again with his roots, but failed to make a connection. "Why don't you brats hold still so I can crush you?"

"Why don't you put your coins where your butt is?" Omi cried out not bothering to listen to the correction. "Wudai Neptune Water!" A jet stream of water forced Hannibal up against a tree.

"Wudai Crater Earth!" Clay shouted using his powers to incase Hannibal in a bed of rock.

"Wudai Star Wind!" Raimundo said using his powers to force Hannibal to shrink. Before he could squirm out of the way that when Jermaine and Dagwood used their powers.

"Wudai Black Hole Gravity!"

"Wudai Planet Wood!" Both powers reacted together and kept Hannibal trapped and that's when Jack delivered the final blow. Raising his hands he unleashed his most powerful Wudai Asteroid Attack and knocked the little bean dude unconscious. That's when the girls came running over carrying Ying Ying's cage.

"Looks like you boys handled yourselves well. What do you say to putting these guys in a permanent jail cell?" Lu suggested. Everyone nodded and put the cage down next to Hannibal. Linking hands together they combined their Wudai powers together merging them until they formed a chi bubble trapping the two evildoers. "Let's see them get out of this trap. Come on let's see how the Warriors are doing."

Tyrant Hannibal wasn't doing to well without the support of his future self. His Kershaw had been taken away and he was stripped of his armor. He was now standing in his underclothes breathing hard. He was trying to zap his enemy's with his stolen Kung power, but he had used too much up. He was finished.

"Give up Tyrant Hannibal your finished. Surrender now or will have to kill you!" Oba said panting hard.

"Give up? Are you insane? You don't have the power to kill me your far to weak!" Tyrant Hannibal shot back.

"Maybe we are to weak to kill you, but we're not to weak to strip you of your stolen power. From now on your outside shall reflect your inside and your friend shall share your fate! Warriors begin the ritual!" Quintessa ordered.

"Right. Soul of Water!" Oba chanted bringing his hands together. His pendent glowed a steady dark blue. When pulled his palms apart the glow had formed into a disc shape form of blue energy. This was the pure essence of water in its zenith form.

"Soul of Fire!" Agni said calmly producing her flaming red disc of fire essences.

"Soul of Earth!" Caleb intoned as he clapped his hands together. The disc was the color of new leaves and was pulsating like crazy.

"Soul of Wind!" Zephyr said invoking the power of his pendent. Within seconds he had a pure white razor disc just ready for action.

"Soul of Metal!" Dactyl commanded with ease. He showed no signs of weakness as the royal purple disc came to life in front of him.

"Soul of Gravity!" Jason cried. His razor disc was the softest gray you could imagine, but it still packed a punch.

"Soul of Wood!" Bonsai said. He kept his eyes on the weakened Tyrant and frozen Vizier as his chocolate brown disc sprang to life.

"Soul of Lightening!" Quintessa bellowed with all her might. Within seconds she had an electric yellow disc of energy just waiting to be used.

"Soul of Ice!" Aleu voiced clearly. Her entire body glowed before her indigo razor disc appeared.

"Soul of Flare!" Nova stated as her bright orange disc came to life in front of her eyes.

"Soul of Light!" Eos chanted. Her pink disc shone the brightest of all of them.

"Soul of Darkness!" Selena invoked proudly as she formed the last ebony black razor disc in front of her.

All the Ancient Warriors looked at one another before nodding. Raising their hands high they flung the razor disc of energy at their two opponents whom were both trying to run away. They didn't get far as the twelve discs lifted them up into the air along with the Kershaw and Hannibal's armor. Slowly but surely the disc started forming an atom like orbit around the two men until they became one single strand of energy. The monks could only watch in disbelief as the stolen Kung power was released from Hannibal's body and he screamed like a little girl as his body was twisted about until both he and Ying Ying now resembled their present forms. With burst of light all four objects were scattered to the four corners of the Earth.

The monks cheered happily knowing it would take Hannibal centuries to find both Ying Ying and his armor. By that time Dashi and his Dragons would be on call to stop him. It was at that moment they noticed the Ancient Warriors had fallen the ground due to a lack of energy. They raced over to see if they could help. "What's wrong with you guys? Are you going to be okay?" Stacey inquired.

"Transforming those two evil beings and banishing them took a lot out of us. We must get back to the Xiaolin City if we are to have any hope of recovering," Nova panted.

"Shang, do you think you could take us back old friend?" Quintessa questioned weakly.

"I'm afraid my injuries are to sever to fly Empress. I believe Dojo is strong enough to carry us all if we go slowly," Shang replied tiredly. Dojo immediately grew to full size. Once everyone was safely onboard they flew back to the Xiaolin City. What they saw left them speechless.

A few hours ago this city was a vibrant metropolis, the last standing structure of the Ancient's Empire. Now half the buildings were gone while everything else was crumbling. The palace/temple had been obliterated. The people had long since left this place. It was a ghost town.

"I don't believe it. Even though we won the battle Tyrant Hannibal has won the war. All our dreams are gone," Selena cried sadly.

"What do you mean gone? You guys can rebuild once you recover your strength and I'm sure that your people will return once they hear the good news. So why are you all so sad?" Callie asked as she tried her best to heal their wounds. She had healed the easier ones, but they still seemed to be losing strength.

"I'm afraid it's not as simple as that. When we used the souls we put in most of our remaining life force to give them required power. As a result we are near death. Now we'll never be able to leave behind a legacy and our people will become forgotten. Our entire culture will never be remembered," Oba explained sadly.

"Don't forget the Kung energy that was released from Hannibal isn't nearly enough to replace what he stole. The entire balance is teetering," Agni managed to say.

"Plus the fact that if Hannibal ever manages to return there will be no one to stop him. It's not fair that we should succeed in stopping his evil reign of destruction only to lose the things we value the most," Nova remarked sadly.

"You can't give up yet. Not after all you guys went through to stop Hannibal," Kimiko exclaimed.

"The world needs to remember what transpired here today. If the future forgets than Hannibal can come back and regain all he lost. Your sacrifice will be in vain. Is that what you want?" Lu demanded.

"Come on guys think. There must be a way for you to have your cake and eat it. Think what could you do in the short time remaining to you that will allow you to achieve all your goals?" Raimundo pressed.

"There is one way for us to achieve this, but we're going to need your help to pull it off," Shang coughed as Dojo finally landed them on what use to be the Palace/Temple grounds. Everyone looked at the dragon waiting for him to continue.

"I could use my last remaining strength to bury the remains of this city. The Xiaolin City would forever be preserved and once you've written our story on the walls I'm sure our culture will not be forgotten. That takes care of one goal. As for the second to warn about Hannibal's return and protect the delicate balance of good and evil that's where my blood comes in. All our rules, laws, and knowledge of Hannibal are apart of my blood. When I give my life my blood will flow from the Xiaolin City to the Nilyeh City and those who take up the fight will know the truth. It is a honor I can't refuse," Shang said.

"We could hide our weapons and Master Ryo's chest for future generations to use. But that still doesn't help in restoring the lost Kung energy or for us to create a legacy," Aleu pointed out.

"We could turn ourselves into pure elements that way we be able to fix the Kung problem," Dactyl responded.

"Yeah and if we do the ceremony right a piece of our soul will be reborn into every new Dragon that comes along. In a way we'd be helping our decedents with their problems," Jason added.

"Not to mention if these monks would be so kind they could hide our Soul Pendants and Legacy Scrolls. That way we truly be giving our children a helping hand," Eos said her eyes sparkling.

"We must hurry to accomplish this before sunset or I fear we won't have any strength left. Please young monks any assistance you give us will be well appreciated," Quintessa pleaded. The monks nodded and eagerly began to help.

Within the next few hours the weapons and Treasure of the Blind Swordsman hidden, the story was carved on the wall, and the city had been buried underground. Shang said a tearful goodbye as he breathed his last breath and passed on to the next life. It was especially sad for Dojo, but he knew that his grandfather's sacrifice would serve a higher purpose. Next it was time for the Warriors to turn into pure elements and allow their souls to be live on in the next generation. After a couple of tear jerking good byes the monks, Dojo, and Hannibal and Ying Ying, who were still stuck in the chi bubble, watched as the Warriors activated their souls one final time.

"Soul of Water, Fire, Earth, Wind, Metal, Gravity, Wood, Lightening, Ice, Flare, Light, and Darkness!" They chanted. Everyone gasped as they saw the Ancient's body transform into pure elements. With a final good-bye wave they released themselves into the Kung Site and were dispersed throughout the world. All that was left behind were their Soul Pendants, which they quickly placed in a simple chest next to the Legacy Scrolls and hid them as well. That's when they felt their own soul bodies flying back to the future to be rejoined with their bodies.

The monks opened their eyes and groggily got their feet. Master Fung, Valonia, and Chase looked at them pleased to see them once again whole. "All is as it was. Thanks to you the final battle between the Ancient's and Hannibal played out as it should," Master Fung remarked.

"I'm pleased it only took two and a half hours to retrieve you. Any longer and we would have passed out," Valonia said.

"Two and half hours? We were gone for two whole days!" Jack exclaimed.

"Time passes differently when you're a soul stuck in the past. At least you managed to capture Hannibal and his pet. Now we can dispose of them properly and get on with this momentous occasion," Chase remarked as he made a move to get the chi bubble.

"I don't think so pretty boy. I'm not down for the count just yet. Moby Morpher!" Hannibal shouted using the Shen Gong Wu to grow so big it burst the chi bubble sending the group flying. Ying Ying let out a screech and used its eye beams to place all the monks except Omi and Dojo behind a force field.

"Hey let us out of here this instant!" Auara yelled pounding on the force field to no avail. The other monks tried using their powers, but had no more luck then she did.

Hannibal just laughed at their discomfort. "Now you know what I felt like trapped in your stupid chi bubble. I can't wait to see how you get yourself out of this mess! Ha Ha Ha!" he chortled.

"Release my student's at once!" Master Fung ordered. The old man leapt into action performing his famous Whooping Crane Mash move. Hannibal sneered and caught Master Fung with his roots. After nearly breaking Master Fung in two he flung the old man into a wall where he fainted. "That was way to easy!"

"Why you despicable creature. Haven't you caused enough trouble for one day?" Valonia asked angrily as she unleashed her most powerful magical attack on Hannibal. It didn't even faze him as he used the Moby Morpher to deflect her shot right back at her. The force of the attack was enough to knock the evil Empress right upside the head. As she fell to the floor Hannibal turned his attention towards his remaining foe Chase and Omi.

"Ah my least two favorite people in the world. The time has come to repay you for all the pain you've caused me. Ying Ying disable them!" Hannibal commanded.

"What does he mean by disable?" Omi asked as Chase grabbed the little monk and tried to jump out of the way of Ying Ying's eye beams. He didn't move fast enough and a violet beam grazed the two. Omi suddenly felt weak and he couldn't focus on his powers. "What happened? What did that bird do to us?"

"It temporarily disabled us so we can't use our powers. That's okay because we can still take this menace without our powers," Chase said readying his Draco Galvin.

"I don't think so, there's no way your going to beat me! Take this!" Hannibal cried using his root like appendages as whips and sending the weapon flying. Before they could recover he used the Moby Morpher to grow more appendages and forced them against the wall using a chokehold. Both warriors struggled to free themselves, but couldn't break the hold. "It's all over for you two. At least the day wasn't a total lost seeing as how I'll remove you two thorns from my side once and for all!" he cackled increasing his chokehold.

The monks, Dojo, and Master Fung and Valonia could only watch helplessly as Omi and Chase started turning blue. The former couldn't break through the barrier and the latter were too weak to move. It looked like it was all over until a massive flame ball struck Hannibal burning him and causing him to release Chase and Omi. "Alright I trapped the hot tempered girl who threw that fireball?"

His reply came in the form of a flying tainto. "Star of Fate!" A voice echoed off the room. The powerful weapon cut a huge gash in Hannibal's body as well as slicing off all of his right arms. Sap began pouring out like crazy as someone in red flipped in from the doorway and started using a range of martial art moves on Hannibal. When she stopped the blade returned to Chakra's hand. "Give up Hannibal! I may have missed you before you arrived, but I'm not leaving without your dead body!"

"I doubt that very much! Ying Ying attack!" Hannibal commanded nursing his wounds. Ying Ying dive-bombed Chakra who stood her ground. At the last possible second she dodged out of the way and sliced of the bird's tail feathers. As it tried to steer away she backhanded into the wall.

"You always let your bird fight your battles? If you're such a powerful warlord tyrant prove it!" Chakra ordered as she tried to sweep kick him only to have him jump. He tried to lash out with his remaining roots, but she grabbed them and tossed him over her shoulder clutching the Moby Morpher as they slid into her palms. Without pausing for a breath she launched into a series of punches, kicks, and flips. Right before she could bring her Star of Fate down into his evil little heart Hannibal escaped on Ying Ying's back.

"Don't think this is the end! I'll be back and then all of you will pay!" Hannibal hissed as he flew away. Once he was gone the force field dropped and the monks rushed over to help Master Fung and Valonia up.

"He's gone and finally we can continue with today's ceremony. I know this isn't normally like me, but since it's a day of truth would all of you like to stay for the final ceremony?" Master Fung asked.

"We'd love to. I'm sure my daughters could use the rest after holding up that illusion spell for so long," Valonia remarked.

"I would very much like to see my former students graduate. I think I to will stay," Chase said.

"I would, but I can't. The longer I stay the colder Hannibal's trail will get. I can't afford to miss this opportunity for the Order. I wish you all the best of luck," Chakra said leaving as quickly as she came. The rest followed outside where they saw Wuya and Meribor reaching their limits. After quickly reliving them the evil guest took seats in the back as the monks stood in a row on stage as Master Fung and Dojo, who was holding a box, stood waiting to finish the ceremony.

"Now for the completion of the Rite of Passage Ceremony. As you have just witnessed the young monks now understand the full extent of their ancient legacy and what it means to be able to tap into the zenith of their powers. They will need that knowledge in their final quest to decide who amongst them shall rise to the rank of Shoku first as the leaders of the group. Hopefully this will lead them to becoming Masters or perhaps Grandmasters. For now it is my honor and pleasure to present to you the full fledged Wudai Warriors receiving their Soul Pendants and their Legacy Scrolls. Dojo, the box if you please?"

"Right away Fungmiester. Here they are in all their glory," Dojo said opening the box up to reveal the Soul Pendants and Legacy Scrolls. Master Fung reached inside and removed the first one. "Omi Long, step forward."

Omi stepped forward trembling. He gazed out at the crowd and caught Chase's eye and his heart filled with pride. He knew that even if he had no family here to celebrate this moment someone was proud of him. He turned to Master Fung and waited patiently.

"Omi, your journey has been the longest. When you first started you had dreams of being the perfect student and you refused to allow anyone to help you. Your arrogance and selfish attitude was your downfall more then once, but you've changed a great deal since then. You've become a loyal young man and a good friend to others. By far I'm most impressed with your newfound humility. I'm honored to present to you the Soul of Water and Water Legacy Scroll," Master Fung said slipping the pendant over Omi's head and handing him the ancient scroll. Omi shook his head and took a step back as Kimiko stepped forward.

"Kimiko Tomomeko, when you arrived here all you cared about what your video games and tech, not to mention you had a fiery temper. There were times I questioned if you would ever learn control. I have to say that you've not only achieved absolute focus, but have demonstrated great courage and honor to others. I'm pleased to bestow upon you the Soul of Fire and Fire Legacy Scroll," Master Fung said as he shook her hand. Kimiko bowed and fingered her pendent before stepping back and allowing Clay to take her place.

"Clay Bailey, you have changed signifigently from the Texan cowboy who first graced these steps. Before it took you forever to get excited about anything and you had a tough time standing up for yourself. Now that has all changed as you have gained both a great inner as well as physical strength. I feel confident that you will be able to handle the Soul of Earth's power and master the secrets of the Earth Legacy Scroll," Master Fung told his pupil. Clay tipped his hat appropriately before moving back and allowing Raimundo center stage.

"Raimundo Pederosa, your time here at the Xiaolin Temple has been hard on you. Your juvenile pranks, rebellious nature, and laziness has gotten you into trouble more than once. Yet when the chips were down you demonstrated great kindness and willingness to learn from your mistakes. I'm proud of you and I have no qualms with giving you the Soul of Wind and Wind Legacy Scroll. Congratulations," Master Fung told the crying student. Raimundo wiped his tears from his eyes as he gazed at the Legacy Scroll wondering what secrets it contained. It was Jack's turn and he was nervous.

"Jack Spicer, your journey has truly been unique. When we first met you were an enemy determined to get attention by being an evil boy genius bent on world domination. Since your true destiny was revealed you have made great strides towards achieving your goals with great determination. I hope to see more of that in the future. As a reward for your hard work I present you with the Soul of Metal and Metal Legacy Scroll," Master Fung said gently. The albino was smiling proudly and did a thumb up to display his enthusiasm as Jermaine slid out in front.

"Jermaine Cook, I was surprised to learn that our chance encounter prospered into a lasting relationship. Your unique perspective on life has allowed you to master one of the more difficult elements without problems. Even with your jealousy fits your able to prove how selfless you can be by helping out others at the cost of your life. Because of this I am delighted to be giving you the Soul of Gravity and Gravity Legacy Scroll." Jermaine gave him the V for victory sign before pushing Dagwood into the spotlight.

"Dagwood Sequoia, in all my time as Master of this Temple I've never met someone quite like you. Your love for plants and animals has helped us greatly while causing trouble other times. While you still find change hard your flexibility and compassion for others has never been more apparent. Congratulants on receiving the Soul of Wood and Wood Legacy Scroll." Dagwood whispered his thanks as he allowed Lu to push herself forward.

"Lu, Alverous, you are quite a character. When you first came here you showed absolutely no respect for anyone, your brash and rude nature clashed constantly with others and you refused to reign in your recklessness. Over time though you've learned to think before acting and become quite a brave young woman. As a reward I bequeath the Soul of Lightening and Lightening Legacy Scroll to you." Surprisingly Lu gave Master Fung a big hug before taking her place in line once more. Crystal took a breath and stepped forward.

"Crystal White, before coming here you had difficulty trusting people. You feared that everyone wanted to take advantage of your smarts and talents and never appreciated you for your sense of humor and helpful nature. Now after overcoming several obstacles including the death of love one you have become strong enough to receive the Soul of Ice and Ice Legacy Scroll." Crystal graciously accepted the items smiling proudly. Stacey skipped into position wondering what Master Fung would say to her.

"Stacey Hindi, no matter how bad things got you never abandon your faith. Instead you inspired others with it and your artistic achievements demonstrate how important these beliefs are to you. Your generosity towards others in well reflected in your personality. Take the Soul of Flare and Flare Legacy Scroll as a sign of my generosity." Stacey humbly accepted the gifts and knew she'd always honor them. It was Auara's turn for praise.

"Auara Rapses, when you dance or act you glow with the light of the goddess you're named after. I know that it is difficult for you at times to embrace both heritages, but you have been able to do so. Because of this you have gained great wisdom and this will help you master the Soul of Light and Light Legacy Scroll." Auara graciously accepted his words of praise as she slipped on her new pendent. It was so lovely and she knew that Callie would like hers as well.

"Callie Dreamwalker, not only have you become a great warrior, but you have also become a great asset to your tribe as a shawoman. Most people would despair at being the Dragon of Darkness, but not you. With a never ending hopefulness you have now gained the Soul of Darkness and Darkness Legacy Scroll." Callie took her reward proudly before joining her fellow monks.

"These monks have no completed their Rite of Passage. With the help of their Souls they will be able to tap into their zenith powers. The Legacy Scrolls will allow them to know all about past Dragons and discover more about themselves. Let's give them a round of a hand shall we?" Master Fung asked. The applause was thunderous and the monks bowed proudly. Dojo was actually crying!

As the monks said their goodbyes to their families Valonia and her daughters left after saying their goodbyes. They promised they wouldn't bother them for a few days and they were gone. Chase remained for a few moments to talk with Omi. "Congratulations young Omi. It seems even without my help you have accomplished much. I'm proud of you."

"Thank you Chase, that means a lot to me. I only wish my family had been here. Still I'm glad to have something to remember my mother by," Omi replied fingering his locket.

Chase patted him on the head smiling. "I'm sure that your family wherever they are proud of you. Don't give up hope young one, I'm sure your destined to meet your family one-day. Until then, good bye," Chase said leaving Omi to ponder his thoughts.

If Omi or anyone else for that matter had been paying attention to the shadows they would have noticed a silhouette of a figure. Chakra had stayed to watch and her heart had swelled with pride when she saw one monk in particular graduate. "I'm so proud of you Omi. I wish I could tell you how much," she whispered as she removed her gold heart locket from her shirt. She smiled remember how Lao Shi had given it to her on their wedding day. It had been in his family for centuries. Opening up the clasp she looked at the two pictures she had inside. One picture was of her with Lao Shi on their wedding day. On the other side she was holding a newborn infant with yellow skin. With tears in her eyes she looked once more longing at Omi. "I love you son and I promise one day we will be together," she whispered as she turned and left to continue on her quest to kill Hannibal and cure both Chase and herself. It was the only way she could be with her son.